Can you briefly introduce yourself, your position, and your company?
MAHLE is a globally recognized development partner and supplier for the automotive industry, specializing in both on-road and off-road applications. Our mission is to make mobility climate-neutral. Just as we do in the passenger vehicle market, we serve all major vehicle and engine manufacturers worldwide in the commercial vehicle sector. Our strategic focus areas include electrification and thermal management. Additionally, we are committed to developing technologies that help reduce CO2 emissions through the use of renewable fuels. Hydrogen plays a significant role here—both in fuel cells and internal combustion engines. We are deeply involved in all currently electrified commercial vehicles and actively participate in major hydrogen engine and fuel cell projects. MAHLE represents a broad spectrum of technologies.
What does the IAA TRANSPORTATION slogan "People and Goods On The Move" mean to you?
In my view, the slogan perfectly captures the essence of the event. The global population and economy will continue to grow in the future, increasing the demand for both passenger and goods transportation. That’s why it's crucial that this sector contributes significantly to climate protection. The diverse applications and demands on today’s commercial vehicles require a wide range of technical solutions for sustainable drives. MAHLE offers the right technologies to meet these needs.
What are your expectations for IAA TRANSPORTATION 2024?
I’m looking forward to many meaningful discussions! After all, dialogue is key to bringing the massive challenges to the forefront and working together to develop future-proof and market-ready solutions. Our industry needs a "Can Do" spirit: Together, we can make it happen!
What topic will you be presenting at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2024?
Our presentation will focus on the theme of technological diversity. We firmly believe that the transport sector can only achieve climate neutrality by utilizing every technical option available: electrification, fuel cells, and the internal combustion engine, which we have adapted to run on hydrogen. At IAA Transportation, we will showcase our systemic approach to a fuel cell truck: featuring fuel cell peripherals, thermal management, and a fully functional heavy-duty electric axle. While we’re not entering the e-axle business, this impressive exhibit demonstrates our expertise in systems: with two powerful MAHLE SCT electric motors and integrated liquid management—all fully operational. Another highlight is our bionic fan. Inspired by the wing feathers of an owl, known for its quiet flight, this fan makes demanding fuel cell and electric trucks significantly quieter, whether under full load or during charging. Every product we’re displaying is developed, tested, and ready for series production!
What essential future issue do you think is not receiving enough public attention?
I believe we urgently need to have a more objective, fact-based discussion about how we can quickly achieve effective climate protection. Too often, this debate is one-sided and ideologically driven. We shouldn’t have to choose one technology over another or dismiss any option altogether. If we are serious about reducing CO2 emissions, it’s crucial to stay open to all ideas and evaluate all possible solutions impartially. We should leverage every technological tool available as long as it serves the goal of climate protection—and we need to do it as quickly as possible.
Where do you see the greatest potential and the biggest need for improvement in the transport and logistics sector?
I see the greatest potential in thermal management and propulsion—regardless of the application. The unique expertise in processing and innovation within our industry makes me optimistic. If we can successfully integrate these capabilities, we will continue to be global leaders. The most urgent area for improvement is the refueling and charging infrastructure. The EU has set targets for expansion, but more ambition will be needed to support a broad fleet of emission-free vehicles.
IAA TRANSPORTATION is the leading global platform for commercial vehicles, transport, and logistics. Who are you looking to connect with this coming September, and why?
I think we should work even more closely with freight forwarders, as they ultimately decide which models best meet their needs. We can learn a lot from this. After all, life cycle costs, or Total Costs of Ownership (TCO), are the deciding factor in the transportation industry. We need to ensure that it’s economically viable for operators to invest in emission-free vehicles.
The transformation of the transport and logistics sector toward sustainable solutions is significant. What is your vision for the sector in 20 years?
I have to echo the often-cited buzzwords "connected" and "sustainable," but ultimately, it all comes down to efficiency. The more efficiently a truck operates—optimizing both energy use and time—the more sustainable it becomes. I believe that in 20 years, we’ll have made significant progress in this area.
How does the IAA Conference differ from other industry conferences, and why should experts not miss it?
With its wide range of important topics, the IAA Conference offers an excellent opportunity for in-depth exchange with all stakeholders in the transportation field—from OEMs to suppliers, technology specialists, associations, and deep into the transport industry. It’s crucial not only to share your company’s perspectives with other exhibitors and visitors but also to keep the conversation going.